Car Review: Hyundai Tucson Limited Has Unlimited Appeal

EAST HADDAM, CT – The Hyundai Tucson Limited is somewhat of an oxymoron because the popular compact crossover is the Korean company’s best seller. It’s “Limited” in name only, which specifically refers its premium trim package and has nothing to do with actual availability. 

What is also pleasing is this top-of-the-line contender retails for a reasonable $38,645 for 2025.

With the Limited distinction, you’re treated to such niceties as leather-trimmed upholstery, sunroof, ambient (64-color) interior lighting plus LED inside spot lamps and Bose Premium Audio. The front seats, rear seats and steering wheel are heated, while the 8-way power (with lumbar) front memory seats are also ventilated.

 A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is combined with a 10.25-inch center touchscreen. Android Auto, Apple Car Play and Bluelink+ ensure utmost multimedia and connectivity capability.

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A Dual Automatic Temperature Control System is included in the well-integrated, wraparound cockpit-like interior. There are no unsightly flat tablet screens sticking up here, which have become oh-so-unfortunately common. The hands-free lift gate with auto open and a Digital Key are further examples of Hyundai’s commitment to customer convenience.

A conservative 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine gets the job done, but barely. It’s no powerhouse but it’s also under-stressed which means that at least it’s fairly quiet and not as obnoxiously growly on acceleration like many other diminutively-engined alternatives with high compression and direct injection. 

With 187-horsepower, it delivers 23 City mpg and 29 Hwy and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive. There is a Hybrid option available for those looking for a bit more get up and go.

The Tucson Limited rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and mine sported a set of premium Michelin tires, which contributed to its surprisingly plush and supple ride quality. Handling was predictable and confidence inspiring with its multi-link rear suspension.

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Side curtain airbags, forward collision avoidance, lane keeping, blind spot avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert, highway driving assist, parking collision avoidance, remote smart parking assist, rain sensing wipers and more keep the family in safe stead. 

Another sensible Tucson feature is blind spot monitor camera that displays with a flick of the turn signal switch during lane changing.

Thoughtful by design with a spacious, upscale (and serene) cabin and roomy cargo carrying accommodation, striking style has also become a Hyundai hallmark and the Tucson is no exception. The company describes its design as “Sensuous Sportiness” with a futuristic appearance that integrates hidden LED daytime running lights into the grille, along with rear tomahawk-like taillights. 

Crisp character lines and a wide stance convey an impression of svelte, bold authority that stands out among the competitive set. Dark chrome exterior trim and glass black pillars are specified for even further refinement.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson was awarded Top Safety Pick+ recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and was also named Best Compact SUV for Families by U.S. News & World Report. Combined with America’s Best Warranty that includes 10-year/100-000-mile powertrain coverage plus 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary maintenance, the Tucson Limited ownership opportunity, is, in fact, unlimited when it comes to value for money.

(Photos courtesy of Hyundai unless otherwise noted.)